Estonia pledges €6.5 million to Ukraine, including locomotives to keep railways running
Estonia will provide Ukraine with an additional €6.5 million ($7.5 million) in assistance ahead of winter, including €4.5 million to supply locomotives as Russia intensifies attacks on the country's railway infrastructure.
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna announced the funding on November 12, saying that maintaining Ukraine's transport connections was essential to its economy and resilience.
"Russia continues to target Ukraine's critical infrastructure, with transport networks among its primary targets," Tsahkna wrote on X.
According to the minister, Russian attacks have destroyed more than 600 locomotives since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, and strikes on Ukraine's railways are intensifying.
Estonia will work with its railway companies to deliver locomotives to Ukraine, allocating €4.5 million to the effort. Tsahkna did not specify how many locomotives would be supplied or when deliveries would take place.
Another €2 million will go to the World Bank's SPUR 2.0 program, which supports essential public services and Ukraine's recovery and reconstruction.
"Keeping Ukraine connected and mobile is essential to sustaining its resilience and keep the economy moving," Tsahkna said.
"Estonia stands with Ukraine through every step, every season, and every challenge."